Senior Project Associate – Management and Implementation Support

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM's mission includes saving lives and protecting people on the move, driving solutions to displacement, and facilitating pathways for regular migration. The organization is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. IOM operates in numerous countries around the world, providing services and advice to governments and migrants alike, and aims to harness the full potential of migration to strengthen its support to people on the move.

Job Overview:
The Senior Project Associate – Management and Implementation Support will play a crucial role in the project titled 'Regular Migration Status and Socioeconomic Integration for Migrants Received by the Government of Costa Rica.' This project aims to facilitate the successful integration of migrants who choose to remain in Costa Rica. The Senior Project Associate will be responsible for leading and coordinating the engagement of implementing partners and service providers, developing operational workflows, creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and monitoring activities to ensure timely delivery of project targets. The role requires independent leadership and coordination of project implementation, monitoring progress, analyzing challenges, and making recommendations for adjustments to work plans as necessary. The Senior Project Associate will also be responsible for compiling and analyzing relevant data and information, monitoring budget expenditures, and ensuring compliance with IOM policies and donor requirements. This position involves significant interaction with local authorities, UN agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders, as well as the preparation of reports and documentation related to project activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Project Associate include:

• Leading and coordinating the implementation of the project, ensuring activities are carried out according to established plans.
• Monitoring the implementation of activities and analyzing any difficulties encountered, making recommendations for adjustments as needed.
• Researching and compiling information on national, regional, and international developments relevant to the project.
• Monitoring budget expenditures and maintaining accurate records of project budgets.
• Coordinating and monitoring the administrative and technical aspects of implementing partners and service provider activities.
• Planning and conducting capacity-building workshops for relevant stakeholders.
• Participating in meetings and conferences to represent the project.
• Maintaining effective liaison with local authorities, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Preparing correspondence, briefing notes, presentations, and reports in a timely manner. 1
• Documenting good practices and lessons learned, contributing to the development of SOPs and policies for future projects. 1
• Supervising and providing guidance to reporting staff. 1
• Performing other relevant duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with five years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a High School diploma with seven years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Candidates should have experience liaising with governmental authorities, UN agencies, and NGOs, as well as experience working with migrants and vulnerable groups. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations is advantageous, as is experience in managing administrative and technical processes for engaging partners and service providers.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, or Law. A High School diploma is acceptable if accompanied by extensive relevant professional experience.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have significant experience in liaising with governmental authorities and international institutions, as well as experience working with migrants, refugees, and other vulnerable populations. Experience in managing administrative and technical processes, as well as monitoring and evaluation of project activities, is essential. Candidates should also have experience in a multicultural setting, particularly with international humanitarian organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is required for this position, both oral and written. Candidates will be evaluated on their language proficiency during the selection process. Desirable additional languages include French, Portuguese, Mandarin, Arabic, or Russian, which would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as Special Short Term / G7 with a gross salary of CRC 1,857,38

• The role is subject to local hiring conditions, and only candidates with valid residency and work permits for Costa Rica will be considered. The appointment is contingent upon medical clearance, verification of residency, and necessary government authorizations. IOM adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination. IOM does not charge any fees during the selection process and only accepts applications submitted through its online system.